Everyone knows that the job market is rough and that the engaging, challenging, fun, and good paying jobs, in other words – the dream jobs – may be scarce. If a person wants to avoid the discomfort of searching for their dream job, all they have to do is think that this isn’t the right time. If the truth is known, the right time never comes. They need to change their beliefs, attitude and realize that now is always the perfect time.

It doesn’t matter what might be standing in their way. This vision of a dream job is conceived as soon as the decision is made to make a change. The fact is that people are finding their dream jobs just by following a few clear-cut steps. There are always opportunities for those who are adventurous in the job market especially for those who dare to think big and start anew.

There’s nothing wrong with going into a field because it’s something that you love. And these are seven of those steps that will help get that dream job.

1. Dream Big and Go In a Different Direction

The first step is self-examination when wanting to make a smart choice about a career change. Consider if there’s a part of the current job that’s fulfilling or maybe a hobby. Look for something that brings passion and find out if it’s something that could produce income. People need to spend time thinking about where they might want to work or the kind of work that will fulfill the life they want.

Write down all of these thoughts and remember that it’s okay to dream big. Sometimes it’s possible for people to move to a more rewarding position within the company they are now working. It could be a charismatic writer who moves to a position in public relations. Try doing some research and be creative to combine a favorite leisure activity with a career.

2. Pinpoint the Dream Job and be Specific

Now take the list, which was made, showing the dream jobs that came to mind. Be very precise and expand on these ideas. For instance, a person wants to become a freelancer and work from home. Be careful because this could lead to offers for a dog walker or a data entry person when the real dream is writing! Use imagination and visualize a typical day in this dream job. Until a person can be explicit, their dream job will remain just out of the reach. Then people need to find out if they have the skill for their dream job and if not they should find a way to learn them.

3. Organize a Job Search

Take everything from the other list and put the ideas into an Excel spreadsheet. Now it’s time to express what a person is looking for in this dream job. Let the spreadsheet be a guide and enter the places to begin the search. Again, be creative because there is no right or wrong. A person never knows what will work unless they try it. As new ideas come to mind, add them to the list and go after the dream.

4. Get Real and Sharpen Those Skills

Even though the job market is in somewhat of turmoil, expertise and skills are just as prized as ever. And experience is still an added attribute. So, if a person doesn’t have the knowledge, skills, or experience for their dream job, some training or online courses may help. The first thing to do is research what is required and go from there. Or there might be an entry-level position available that will provide what’s needed. This would also be a good place to make connections that could bring the dream job closer.

5. Know Where and How to Look

If people know where to look for their dream job, that’s half the battle. A lot of job seekers spend way too much time on job sites like Career Builder and Craig’s List. This is not the best way to go because most businesses show career and job openings on their websites. They also post their openings on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and on specific industry sites.

When looking at the job posting, read it thoroughly because it will save time in the end and one won’t apply for a job they’re not qualified for. Even though most companies aren’t very flexible in the requirements, if a person feels confident, go ahead and apply. But they need to be prepared to express exactly how their experience or skills are good enough to get hired.

6. The Resume and Cover Letter Must be Customized

Most executives will say that the hiring process hasn’t changed even in this social media age. They say that creative and inventive applications like videos will help; but they still require a strong resume, personal references, and cover letter. The cover letter and resume need to be on one page each. Both of these should be tailored and speak to the particular company, job position, job requirements and the use of keywords. By having different varieties of the resume on hand, it can be effective in tailoring it to any industry or role.

7. Create an Online Profile

After receiving a resume, most interviewers go immediately to the person’s Facebook page and their LinkedIn profile. They can find out more about this person, how well they’re connected, their contacts, and rate their maturity. When creating a profile on LinkedIn, spend some time filling in the summary section. Remember that thousands more people will see this LinkedIn resume than the original one. Keep it updated, especially with the recommendations, because a lot of companies rely heavily on them.

In conclusion: A good piece of advice is to keep your current employment while looking for that dream job. This will reduce any pressure that might force you to settle for less. Try getting involved in activities and projects with those who are connected with the dream job you want. By maintaining and nurturing a relationship, these people will keep you in mind. It’s just another form of self-marketing and being known and knowing the right people when the opportunity of a dream job arises.

Author Bio:

Ethan Dunwill is an entrepreneur, business consultant and contributing writer for several websites. Ethan believes that perfectly chosen career is a perfectly chosen future. You can connect with Ethan via Twitter or visit his personal blog.